Mintel Announces 2026 Global Beauty and Personal Care Predictions

CHICAGO, Oct. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Mintel, the global leader in market intelligence, today revealed three key predictions set to impact the global beauty and personal care (BPC) industry in 2026 and beyond.

By 2030, beauty will go beyond skin-deep—consumers will expect serums and supplements to double as wellness diagnostics. At the same time, the beauty experience will shift from simply delivering results to regulating mood and evoking emotion, while imperfection will be the new perfection.

The Mintel 2026 Global Beauty and Personal Care Predictions are:

• Metabolic Beauty: Beauty is entering a new phase where health, technology and personalization converge.

• Sensorial Synergy: The heightened need for emotional wellness makes this the perfect moment for beauty's sensory evolution. 

• Beyond the Algorithm: The Human Touch Revolution: Consumers will seek beauty that feels human, expressive, emotionally real and even flawed. 

Clare Hennigan, Principal Analyst, Beauty and Personal Care at Mintel said:

Metabolic Beauty 

"The storytelling aspect of self-care rituals is becoming increasingly science-backed, further driving the convergence between beauty and healthcare. This shift is bringing cellular health and preventative measures into sharp focus, redefining the role of beauty in consumers' lives.

"Over the next 18–24 months, beauty and health will merge in transformative ways. Advances in biomarker testing, continuous metabolic monitoring, and bio-intelligent technologies are becoming more accessible, enabling personalized solutions that optimize energy, hydration, and cellular repair. This evolution positions wellness-driven beauty as a central force in the industry.

"Looking ahead, skin and hair will be recognized as the body's most visible biomarkers, offering insights into overall health. Beauty brands will evolve into trusted partners in preventative care, delivering products that not only enhance appearance but also provide actionable health data. This redefinition of beauty from indulgence to a personalized, preventative, and science-backed approach will reshape the industry and its connection to consumers."

Sensorial Synergy 

"Beauty has always been a sensory experience—the scent of a lotion, the texture of a cleanser—but these aspects were often seen as optional rather than essential. However, with the rise of dupe culture and improved product efficacy across all price points, sensory elements are becoming increasingly important in influencing purchase decisions.

"The growing focus on emotional wellness makes 2026 the perfect moment for beauty's sensory evolution. Advances in functional fragrances, neuroscience, and immersive technologies like VR are transforming self-care into rich, multi-sensory rituals.

"Looking ahead, beauty will be judged not just on results, but on its ability to regulate emotions and create memorable experiences. Sensory-first design will extend into travel, hospitality, and interiors, with products positioned as daily mood tools. Brands that thrive will seamlessly blend proven results with immersive, emotionally resonant storytelling."

Beyond the Algorithm: The Human Touch Revolution 

"The past few years have been dominated by algorithmic perfection—filters, AI-generated content, and hyper-polished marketing. However, fatigue with constant optimization and unattainable beauty standards is setting in. Consumers are increasingly turning away from overly polished content and unrealistic aesthetics, and are instead gravitating toward beauty that feels human, expressive, and authentically imperfect."

"But The Human Touch Revolution isn't anti-technology, it's a recalibration. One that celebrates human creativity and craftsmanship as the ultimate luxury, while tapping into technology to enhance, not overshadow, the personal and authentic aspects of beauty. 

"In the future, authenticity will be the currency of trust. Brands that thrive will be those that pull back the curtain, showcasing their makers, processes, and even imperfections as proof of their humanity. The most valued beauty experiences will be those that feel deeply personal, creatively rich, and impossible to replicate."

SOURCE Mintel Group, Ltd.